Echo Valley Provincial Park, located near Fort Qu’Appelle, Saskatchewan (Canada) has unveiled an enchanting addition to its outdoor rink, embedding hearts into the ice to celebrate Valentine’s Day. This innovative gesture, a first for the park, aims to attract visitors and spread joy during the winter season.

According to a Regina CTV News report, Shelley MacLean, the park manager, revealed that the idea was a collaborative effort between the park’s maintenance team and its romantics. They proposed the concept as a way to enhance the visitor experience during the colder months. “It’s the first time we’ve had it happen,” MacLean said, expressing her support for the initiative to bring a little bit of joy to people and encourage them to enjoy the park’s natural beauty.
The introduction of red hearts into the ice is part of a broader initiative to offer a variety of outdoor activities at Echo Valley Provincial Park. With extended hours for the Family Day weekend, the park is set to welcome families with open arms, providing a plethora of activities that cater to all ages and interests. From a zip line and ninja warrior course to croki-curl and ski trails, the park has something for everyone. Additionally, amenities such as the park’s fireplace and a portable sauna are available to visitors, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
In an effort to make these activities accessible to all, MacLean emphasized that the majority of them are free of charge. The only cost to visitors is the CA$11 park entry fee, making it an affordable option for families seeking outdoor fun. “It’s certainly affordable for families, especially today’s day and age when everything costs a lot,” MacLean noted, highlighting the value offered by the park.
Tourism Saskatchewan’s website is the go-to source for information on all the events and activities planned at the park for the upcoming weekend, including special programming for Valentine’s Day and Family Day. MacLean expressed her hope that the park will be bustling with visitors enjoying the unique winter experience Echo Valley has to offer.
This initiative by Echo Valley Provincial Park not only enhances the visitor experience but also serves as a model for how outdoor recreation areas can attract visitors during the off-peak season. By offering unique and engaging activities, parks can increase visitation, contributing to the growth of the outdoor recreation industry.
Nearby private campgrounds have the opportunity to leverage this increased interest in outdoor activities by promoting year-round stays. By partnering with provincial parks for events like the heart-embedded ice rink, private campgrounds can offer package deals or promotions that encourage visitors to extend their stay in the area, benefiting the local economy and the outdoor hospitality sector.
As Echo Valley Provincial Park demonstrates, innovative attractions and activities can significantly boost the appeal of outdoor recreation areas, drawing in visitors even during colder months. This approach not only supports the outdoor recreation industry but also highlights the potential for collaboration between public parks and private campgrounds to enhance the overall visitor experience.